Brachycephalic Airway Surgery for Dogs near Tampa, FL
Personalized veterinary care begins with understanding your pet’s breed, lifestyle, and individual health risks. Brachycephalic dogs can be predisposed to respiratory challenges due to the way their upper airway is formed. When breathing becomes labored or inefficient, targeted evaluation and treatment may be recommended. Dr. Katie Barry, our board-certified surgeon, routinely helps dogs from the Tampa area and performs brachycephalic airway procedures at our animal hospital in nearby Winter Haven.
For questions about Brachycephalic Syndrome or to schedule a surgical consultation, contact Veterinary Healthcare Associates at (863) 324-3340.
What is Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome?
Brachycephalic breeds have a head shape that creates a shorter nose and muzzle. Familiar examples include English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and Pekingese. In some dogs, the structures of the upper airway are naturally smaller or more crowded, which can make breathing less efficient and cause them to tire faster. With attentive, breed-specific care and early support when needed, many of these dogs can remain comfortable and thrive.
Signs of Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
If your pet exhibits any of the following signs, they may be affected by Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome:
- Loud breathing or snoring
- Difficulty breathing, especially during exercise
- Excessive panting
- Blue gums or tongue
- Fainting or collapse
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
Tampa, FL Brachycephalic Airway Surgery
When airway structure affects your dog’s ability to breathe comfortably, surgery may be the best option for long-term improvement. Treating the issue early can enhance airflow, ease breathing effort, and help reduce the chance of ongoing complications. At Veterinary Healthcare Associates in Winter Haven, near Tampa, your pet’s safety is our top priority, and we use strict anesthesia and monitoring protocols to support a smooth procedure and recovery. Dr. Barry performs brachycephalic airway surgery to address concerns such as:
Caring for Brachycephalic Dogs
Because brachycephalic dogs can be predisposed to certain health concerns, we take extra care during wellness exams to watch for early signs. When assessing your pet, we’ll consider:
Respiratory Issues
Brachycephalic breeds often experience respiratory problems due to their elongated soft palate or tracheal stenosis. Upper airway issues are also common due to their shortened skulls/snouts, caused by an elongated soft palate, everted laryngeal saccules, and stenotic nares.
Gastrointestinal Issues
The increased effort required for brachycephalic breeds to breathe can put them at risk for certain gastrointestinal issues, such as hiatal hernia. While these concerns can often be alleviated through airway surgery, our expert team at VHA is fully equipped to surgically correct these issues if necessary. We’re here to ensure your pet’s overall health and comfort.
Urogenital Issues
Brachycephalic males are prone to a condition known as prolapsed urethra, which can arise due to changes in respiratory and abdominal pressures. Surgical correction is typically necessary, and we strongly recommend addressing any airway issues simultaneously to ensure the best outcome for your pet's overall well-being.
Dental Disease
Brachycephalic breeds frequently have overcrowded teeth, leading to dental disease. Tartar buildup under the gum line releases bacteria into the bloodstream, affecting your dog’s heart, liver and kidneys. Our team at VHA reduces dental disease risk through comprehensive teeth cleaning services, including full mouth examinations, digital X-rays, and thorough cleanings to maintain your pet’s dental health.
